About the Collection

Reclaiming the Everglades is a special compilation that represents
all or part of sixteen 'physical' collections housed in the archives
and special collections of University of Miami, Florida International
University and the Historical Museum of Southern Florida. These
collections are normally seen by appointment at the holding library
in Miami. Reclaiming the Everglades now makes these valuable
materials freely accessible to users worldwide.

Individually, each collection in Reclaiming the
Everglades offers a distinct perspective on the "reclamation"
of the Everglades. The persons represented in these historical materials
focused national attention on the unique value of the region through
his or her efforts to explore, exploit, or conserve its natural resources.
Collectively, the materials in Reclaiming the Everglades provide
a balanced view of the history of the Everglades while illuminating
numerous topics and themes of regional, national and worldwide concern.
Major issues explored in these records include the role of the federal
government, state government, and private citizens in the creation
of a national park; the growth and development of the modern conservation
movement and its institutions (e.g., genesis of the National Audubon
Society and the establishment of Everglades National Park); the evolving
role of women on the political stage both locally and nationally;
the treatment of Native Americans, including the Seminoles; rights
of individual citizens or private corporations vs. the public interest;
and accountability of government as trustees of public resources,
whether for the purposes of development, reclamation, or environmental
protection.

The materials presented in Reclaiming the Everglades are only a small part of the wealth of historical and archival treasures
held by south Florida's libraries. Users should note the source of
materials found on this site and contact the holding libraries or
archives directly for more information.